Packers Draft Targets: Interior Defensive Linemen to Watch

Injuries throughout the roster exposed multiple weaknesses for the Green Bay Packers last season, but none were more concerning than the defensive line.

While Devonte Wyatt and Micah Parsons are expected to return in 2026 to strengthen the defensive front, Green Bay still lacks a dependable and physical lineman capable of defending the run. The lack of such a presence was noticeable throughout the season, especially as attrition increased.

The Packers enter the 2026 NFL Draft with an opportunity to address that issue in a defensive tackle class that features notable depth in run-stuffing. Multiple Day 2 and 3 prospects project as good fits for a defense that needs more mass, power, and consistency.

Lee Hunter — Texas Tech

At 6’4″, 330lbs, Hunter brings the type of size and strength Green Bay currently lacks inside. He consistently holds his ground against double teams and controls interior gaps, making him an immediate upgrade as a run defender.

He plays with heavy hands and strong lower-body power, allowing him to anchor at nose tackle or slide to different alignments. Hunter is not an elite penetrator, but he can push the pocket with a bull rush and collapse space in front of quarterbacks.

He would give Green Bay a true early-down interior presence who can absorb blocks and keep linebackers clean. His ability to occupy multiple blockers would also create more one-on-one opportunities for Micah Parsons and Devonte Wyatt. He had a dominant week at the Senior Bowl and could shoot up draft boards as a result.

Skyler Gill-Howard — Texas Tech

Gill-Howard offers a very different skill set to his teammates. He wins with quickness, leverage, and first-step rather than size. He consistently shoots gaps and disrupts plays before they develop.

As a pass rusher, Gill-Howard shows active hands and a developing move set. He can line up at three-technique or kick outside in sub-packages. His lack of mass shows up against double teams, but effort and technique help offset some of those limitations.

Gill-Howard would add interior pass-rush juice to a unit that struggled to generate pressure from the middle. He profiles as a rotational disruptor who can contribute on passing downs and complement bigger defensive tackles.

Tim Keenan III — Alabama

Keenan is a classic nose tackle. He plays with excellent pad level and strong base strength, making him difficult to move. He anchors well at the point of attack.

He does not offer much as a pass rusher, but he consistently occupies space and forces runners to bounce outside. Keenan thrives in early-down situations where physicality and gap control matter most. He can make a substantial addition to the team’s run defense.

Domonique Orange — Iowa State

Orange combines size, power, and density with better-than-expected quickness. He generates knockback with his initial punch and can clog interior lanes.

While his pass-rush game remains basic, he consistently affects run plays by occupying blockers and closing space. His frame and strength profile fit well for two-gap responsibilities.

He would give Green Bay a long-term nose tackle option with starting potential.